Caring for a loved one who is sick or disabled can be a 24/7 job. It can be overwhelming and exhausting, and it's important to take breaks from time to time. That's where respite care comes in. Respite care is a special name for short-term relief for primary caregivers, providing them with the opportunity to rest and relax, travel, or engage in other tasks.
Respite care can be organized for just one afternoon or for several days or weeks. It can be provided at home, at a health care facility, or at an adult day center. For caregivers who continue to work part-time or full time, taking advantage of respite services, such as regular adult day care, allows them to continue to earn income while being the primary caregivers for a disabled or elderly loved one. The cost of respite care depends on the type of agency, the services you use, and the time you need them.
Home health agencies are available as a resource to help you determine if you or a loved one qualifies for respite care. Foster care is also an option and the costs are based on the number of hours or days the services are provided. Visiting the Angels temporary care center can also help reduce the risk of caregiver burnout without compromising the quality of the home support your loved one receives. When considering respite care, it's important to talk frankly with your loved one and the rest of your family about the reasons why you need it and what you are planning. Professional and dedicated caregivers will take a flexible approach when planning and scheduling services to ensure that you and your loved one receive the respite care you need.
Make sure that any service, program, or care facility is licensed in your state and that you have insurance in case of an accident.
